“Look for shelter in the nearest room. Close and locate all doors and hide,” read in a warning that gave instructions to all those who were not in the affected area. It is a strong police contingent near the Parliament of Canada.
The East Block of the Federal Parliament of Canada was closed from an emergency this afternoon, according to a warning issued by the Parliamentary Security Service (PPS, follow in English).
“Look for shelter in the nearest room. Close and locate all doors and hide,” read in the message sent at 14:24 local (19:24 of Lisbon)
The warning gives instructions to all those who are not in the affected area to remain removed until new order and not go to places under closure.
“Wait for additional instructions from the operational on the ground,” the service added.
Strong police contingent on site
The parliamentary security service called on to the public to avoid the surrounding area to Parliament and collaborate with the authorities.
According to the authorities, the incident began shortly before 15:00 local (20:00 in Lisbon) and involves a barricated man in the area of the East Block. The wing has been evacuated, and there is no record of injuries to the event.
The parliamentary security service and the Otava police are at the scene with a strong police contingent.
Police appealed to the public to avoid the Parliament’s Hill Zone and follow the agents’ instructions on the ground. Wellington Street is closed to traffic between Bank Street and Sussex Drive.
Parliament is currently dissolved due to federal elections, scheduled for April 28, which means there is little activity in the building.
